1. Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of emerging biomedical topics.

Knowledge & Understanding

2. Evaluate and apply contemporary approaches to emerging challenges, integrating research evidence and innovative methodologies.

Application & Problem Solving

Research Skills

3. Analyse and discuss the ethical, societal, and global implications of advanced technologies, demonstrating reflective and evaluative skills.

Critical Reasoning & Collaboration

Personal Development & Entrepreneurship

4. Communicate complex scientific ideas effectively and critically reflect on the broader impact of research on society

Communication

Reflection

1. Cross-level seminar: Students will be hosting a cross-level short seminar on their own chosen topic. The cross-level aspect relates to the content being suitable for level 4 and 5 students being invited to form part of the audience.

Students will be encouraged to refine seminar content and delivery through rehearsal, peer feedback and reflection on communication undertaken within previous modules to support adaptability, clarity and confidence in oral scientific communication.

2. Option a

Science communication article/pitch: Students will write a short form article, or a pitch for such an article, focused on the impact of their chosen topic. This should be for a non-specialist audience – for example theconversation.com.

Option b

Science communication vlog: Students will prepare and record a short vlog focused on the impact of their chosen topic. This should be for a non-specialist audience - and example of this form would be the VSauce channel on YouTube.

Students will be encouraged to analyse examples of high-quality public-facing science communication and engage in peer review of draft ideas. Reflection on audience, impact and accessibility will support translation of complex science into engaging narratives.

In this module you will investigate cutting-edge advances such as drug discovery, personalised medicine, and regenerative therapies, encouraging you to evaluate emerging research and debate its ethical, clinical, and global implications. Including:

Exploration of emerging areas in biomedical science, including evolving research frontiers, technologies and applications.

Drug discovery, regenerative medicine and other advanced therapeutic approaches, with consideration of translational potential and precision healthcare.

Critical evaluation of contemporary research, including interpretation of novel findings, identification of knowledge gaps and future directions.

Ethical, societal, regulatory and global considerations relating to innovative biomedical interventions and technological advancement.

Student-led inquiry through independent investigation, discussion-based learning and reflective engagement with cutting-edge topics.

What does the future of biomedical science look like—and how can you shape it?

In this module you will investigate cutting-edge advances such as drug discovery, personalised medicine, and regenerative therapies, encouraging you to evaluate emerging research and debate its ethical, clinical, and global implications. Through interactive seminars and independent scholarship, you will refine your critical-thinking, scientific reasoning, and reflective practice. By the end, you will be equipped to engage thoughtfully with nascent biomedical innovations and contribute to future developments in research, clinical practice, or policy.

Sessions will include lectures, workshop activities, discussions, groupwork, drop-in support sessions.

Vaughn, L. (2025) Bioethics: Principles, Issues, and Cases. Sixth edition. Oxford University Press.

Extensive use of contemporary primary/secondary literature and policy documentation will form the basis of much of the reading associated with this module.

Suitable rooming for group work and discussion

Scientific laboratory for practical block

IT suite space with access to PCs